Ludlow 3.05 tips – O’Neill charge a solid option

But there’s an even better bet running in the feature 2m novices’ limited handicap chase at Ludlow in the shape of the Jonjo O’Neill-trained I’DLIKETHEOPTION. A three-time winner over hurdles, he was always going to be a better chaser and ran a face full of promise when chasing home the more experienced Master Dee on his debut at Newton Abbot in August, going down by just half a length with a couple of decent sorts in behind. He again had Master Dee as one of his opponents on his next start in a similar race to today’s earlier this month and he would surely have given that horse a race but for pecking and unseating his rider four out when going well.

That was his only semblance of a mistake so I doubt his confidence was effected and remain convinced he has a good pot in him off his current mark of 122. Both his chase starts so far have been over 2m4f plus, but he gives the impression that a truly run race over two miles is what he needs over fences and he should get that today with some in-form rivals taking him on. They include the only last-time-out winner After Eight Sivola, who was perhaps fortunate to score at Newton Abbot 13 days ago, and Canicallyouback, who has been running well but has been beaten off lower marks than today’s on his last three starts.

The selection is taken to improve past them and the booking of Barry Geraghty, who has a 1-3 strike rate at the track and is here for just one ride, clinches the bet.